Choosing where to live is one of the biggest decisions when PCSing. The Mississippi Gulf Coast offers a range of neighborhoods — from artsy beach towns to quiet rural communities — all within a short commute of the major installations.
Below you will find our curated guide to the best neighborhoods near Keesler AFB, NCBC Gulfport, and Stennis Space Center. Click any neighborhood to see it on the map, or use the base filter to narrow your search.
12 neighborhoods
Ocean Springs
D'Iberville
Woolmarket / North Biloxi
Long Beach
North Gulfport / Orange Grove
Long Beach
Diamondhead
Saucier
Diamondhead
Bay St. Louis
Kiln
Picayune
Quick Comparison
Compare neighborhoods at a glance — sorted by commute time to the nearest base.
| Neighborhood | Base | Commute | Median Home | Schools | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long Beach | NCBC | 8–10 min | $215K | 7/10 | Beach Town |
| D'Iberville | Keesler | 10–12 min | $220K | 6/10 | Suburban |
| North Gulfport / Orange Grove | NCBC | 10–12 min | $195K | 6/10 | Suburban |
| Kiln | Stennis | 12–15 min | $200K | 6/10 | Rural / Country |
| Woolmarket / North Biloxi | Keesler | 15–18 min | $240K | 7/10 | Rural / Country |
| Picayune | Stennis | 15–20 min | $175K | 5/10 | Suburban |
| Ocean Springs | Keesler | 15–20 min | $265K | 8/10 | Artsy & Historic |
| Diamondhead | Stennis | 18–22 min | $250K | 6/10 | Planned Community |
| Long Beach | Keesler | 20–25 min | $215K | 7/10 | Beach Town |
| Bay St. Louis | Stennis | 20–25 min | $235K | 6/10 | Artsy & Historic |
| Diamondhead | NCBC | 22–28 min | $250K | 6/10 | Planned Community |
| Saucier | NCBC | 25–30 min | $210K | 6/10 | Rural / Country |
Tips for Choosing Your Neighborhood
Visit Before You Commit
If possible, schedule a house-hunting trip before your PCS. Drive the commute at rush hour, walk the neighborhoods, and visit the schools. The Gulf Coast feels different in person than on paper.
Check Flood Zones First
Use FEMA's Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) to check any property. Properties north of I-10 are generally outside the coastal flood zone, which means lower insurance costs and no mandatory evacuations.
Factor in Insurance Costs
Homeowners insurance on the coast includes a separate wind/hail policy. Homes built to FORTIFIED standards can save 25–50% on wind premiums. Ask about construction standards before buying.
Consider Your Spouse's Commute
If your spouse works at a different base or in a nearby city, choose a neighborhood that balances both commutes. Diamondhead, for example, is between NCBC and Stennis.
Talk to Other Military Families
Join local Facebook groups like 'Keesler Spouses' or 'NCBC Gulfport Families' to get real-time advice from people who have already PCSed here.